Stackable Mezzanine Connector With Adjustable Spacer Wafer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mezzanine connectors require multiple units for high stack heights, leading to increased costs and potential stability and thermal management issues, as they are not configurable to vary stack height and can interfere with airflow.
Innovation Solution
A three-part connector assembly with interchangeable backplane connectors and a wafer/shroud sub-assembly that provides adjustable stack height and maintains airflow paths by using a wafer with retention barbs and shrouds to secure the desired spacing between circuit boards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If multiple mezzanine connectors are stacked to achieve high stack height, then the desired stack height is achieved, but connector cost increases and stability becomes a concern
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is divided into modular components: a base connector, a mezzanine connector, and interchangeable spacers. This segmentation allows the stack height to be adjusted by selecting different spacer lengths rather than stacking multiple connectors, thereby reducing system complexity while achieving the desired height.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system transitions from a fixed stack height design to a dynamic, adjustable height system. Interchangeable spacers with different lengths enable the stack height to be varied according to specific application requirements, providing flexibility without increasing the number of connectors needed.
2Length of stationary object
If multiple mezzanine connectors are stacked to achieve high stack height, then the desired stack height is achieved, but connector cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is segmented into reusable components (base connector, mezzanine connector, and spacers). This allows a single set of connectors to serve multiple stack height requirements by simply changing the spacer, reducing the need to manufacture and stock multiple complete connector assemblies for different heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The base connector and mezzanine connector are designed as universal components that can work with any spacer length. This multi-functionality allows the same connector pair to achieve various stack heights, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connector variants and reducing overall system cost.
3Reliability
If mezzanine connectors are designed for specific stack height, then connector stability is maintained, but adaptability to vary stack height is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The interchangeable spacer mechanism allows the stack height to be changed while maintaining proper alignment and connection stability through the consistent design of the connector interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows adjustment of the stack height parameter by changing the spacer length, while other critical parameters such as connector alignment, contact pressure, and mechanical stability are maintained through standardized connector designs. This enables adaptability without sacrificing reliability.
4Length of stationary object
If mezzanine connectors are used for high stack height, then clearance for components is provided, but airflow path is blocked and thermal management is interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer incorporates an open lattice structure with thin walls that provide the necessary mechanical spacing while allowing airflow to pass through. This lattice design maintains the required clearance for components on the circuit boards while minimizing obstruction to airflow paths for thermal management.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer uses a porous lattice structure that provides structural support and maintains stack height while allowing air to flow through the gaps in the lattice. This enables thermal management airflow to continue effectively even with the increased stack height required for component clearance.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for connecting first and second circuit boards in a substantially parallel relationship includes a first connector matable to the first circuit board and a second connector matable to the second circuit board. A third connector is matable to the first and second connectors and is positioned therebetween. The third connector includes a wafer configured to provide a predetermined spacing between the first and second circuit boards.